In Florida, juvenile offenders can be charged as adults in certain circumstances. This can have serious consequences for their future, including possibly being sentenced to lengthy prison terms. As a parent or guardian of a juvenile offender, it's important to understand the circumstances under which juveniles can be charged as adults. In this blog post, we'll discuss the criteria for charging juveniles as adults in Florida and what you can do to protect your child's rights.
Criteria for Charging Juveniles as Adults in Florida
In Florida, the criteria for charging juveniles as adults are governed by state law. A juvenile can be charged as an adult if they are at least 14 years old and have been accused of committing a serious crime, such as murder, sexual battery, armed robbery, or aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The prosecutor has the discretion to decide whether to charge the juvenile as an adult based on factors such as the severity of the crime, the juvenile's criminal history, and the likelihood of rehabilitation.
Protecting Your Child's Rights
If your child is facing charges as an adult, it's important to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney. A good attorney can help you understand the charges against your child, the potential consequences, and the available defenses. They can also work to protect your child's rights and ensure that they are treated fairly throughout the legal process.
One of the most important things you can do to protect your child's rights is to ensure that they receive a fair trial. This means that they have the right to present evidence in their defense, cross-examine witnesses, and have a jury of their peers decide their guilt or innocence. Your attorney can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your child's rights are protected every step of the way.
Another important consideration is the potential consequences of a conviction. If your child is convicted as an adult, they may face a lengthy prison sentence, even for a relatively minor offense. This can have serious implications for their future, including limiting their opportunities for education, employment, and housing. Your attorney can work to mitigate the consequences of a conviction and help your child get back on track after serving their sentence.
Juvenile offenders can be charged as adults in Florida under certain circumstances. If your child is facing charges, it's important to understand the criteria for charging juveniles as adults and to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney. At First Coast Criminal Defense, we have extensive experience representing juvenile offenders and can help protect your child's rights throughout the legal process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help. (904) 474-3115